Gemotions

The locker room was a blur of jubilant shouts and celebratory high-fives. He, however, found himself rooted to the bench, the air thick with a mixture of sweat and triumph. He didn't deserve it. He'd barely played at all during the trial games. The coach had made the right decision. His body protested against even changing out of his gear.

His teammates high fived him. He fumbled with his bag, the straps feeling heavy on his shoulders. He felt a deep, profound resistance to joining the others at the victory party. He’d planned to be there, right next to them. Now, he just wanted to go home and lie down. The thought of socializing felt exhausting.